The Inspiration for The Emily Dress and Top

If you have been following me for a while you will know I was never going to release a sewing pattern and not share the inspiration behind it 😉 

The original dress was made more out of curiosity than anything else. I had been making dresses from my own personal close fitting block for a while and I wanted to try and apply the same techniques to a more loose fitting, casual style. And of course it needed a big sleeve!

(All the fabrics used are from Lamazi Fabrics. I will add links to all fabrics that are still available) (This one isn't) 

The idea of using a lining for the puff sleeve had been brewing and I saw it used on another pattern and decided to give it a go. I hate having elastic around my upper arm - it needs to be too tight to hold the puff shape which just becomes uncomfortable. And a cuff doesn't have the same voluminous effect. So a lining was the perfect solution. 

I loved the pattern I drafted so much I almost immediately made a second version and they quickly became my favourite dresses. 

Abstract Waves Pink Viscose Poplin

The next stage involved ruffles! I spotted a top on Pinterest, and had seen several others like it, that had ruffles set into the bodice and couldn't find a pattern exactly like it to recreate the look. After noticing the sleeves and fit of the bodice were similar I had a go at changing my block to a v-neck and splitting the bodice pieces to insert a ruffle. I picked up a reversible double gauze by Atelier Brunette and loved the idea of playing with the different size of ginghams to highlight the ruffles. 

Similar fabric - Reversible Gingham Cotton Double Gauze in Dark Sage

After this the pattern became my 'go-to' anytime I wanted to make a loose, easy fit dress that didn't feel oversized. It had been a dream for a while to release my own sewing patterns, and with the encouragement of my family and closest friends (and the sewing community) I decided to take the plunge! (Although I wish it was as simple as that sounds 😅)

Fabric sold out

I started playing about with the length of the skirt and different necklines. One thing that I have always been firm on is when I release a sewing pattern it had to be value for money and with lots of options. In terms of business, many would say this is not a good idea. I could have released half the options I have included as a single pattern, with more to follow as an add on or separate pattern. 

Personally I don't like when this happens, so I couldn't start my own pattern company doing the same. I want anyone who makes this pattern to make it a lot, especially if you need to make any fitting adjustments. After you have made these adjustments once, you can easily make several garments that all look different without having to repeat the same adjustments or figure out if a pattern block is right for you. 

Summer Party Painted Foliage in Forest Viscose

Being part of the sewing community for a while, I also wanted to make the pattern as size inclusive as possible. My biggest hope is that as many sewists as possible can find the same joy from this pattern as I have and any more patterns that follow. In the long run I felt it was easier to start off like this, than have to go back and expand the size range later. 

I would like to take this opportunity to also say I will be sharing more photos of the pattern on different body shapes. But in all honesty, I'm not I could take the stress any longer and had to get it released 🙈 I will have a round up on the blog soon of everyone who helped in the drafting and grading process soon.

This version was made in a Deadstock Cotton Seersucker and has a different sleeve. But the bodice is the same.

Speaking of drafting and grading... I did take on the mammoth task of doing this myself. I have a degree in Fashion Management and pattern drafting was a big part of this. I can tell you now, never during my time as a student did I think I would be making a career from this part of my degree, but it turns out it is the technical side of sewing that I really, thoroughly enjoy! Maths was always one of my strongest subjects at school so it makes sense that I am combining that with my love of sewing and fashion. 

Back to the pattern... 

Summer Party Lupine Petals Blue Viscose with Ecovero™ Fibres

The next versions I made were the samples. It took a while to get around to this as there were fabrics in my stash that I had earmarked for this. I wanted to use photographs in the instructions as opposed to illustrations. This is a personal preference for every sewist, and I felt I could get more detail into the photos. (And after grading 12 sizes and 2 cup sizes I'm not sure I could have spent anymore time in front of illustrator!!)

Emerald Leopard Viscose

Fabric sold out

And that is the story of my first pattern. For a long time it was simply called "Pattern #1". I struggled with choosing a proper name for it, as so many sewing patterns have a name as the name (does that make sense?!). But in the end it was a no brainer and I had to go with what my heart was saying, and I named it after my daughter Emily. It makes me so happy every time someone has said the name now and it feels right.

*Spoiler alert... my next pattern will be the 'Charlie Jacket' as requested by my son! And someday there will be a mini version of both patterns as they have already requested it.

Getting here has been a rollercoaster of emotions and I have so many people to thank for helping me get here. I will save that for another blog to give them the space they deserve. 

I can't wait to see your versions of the #SoSewEmily dress and top!